Kota Kinabalu, 18 Oct 2025,
Sabah has significant potential to emerge as the leading halal franchise hub in East Malaysia, leveraging its abundant natural resources and strategic regional position, said Entrepreneur and Cooperative Development Minister Datuk Ewon Benedick.
“The Ministry’s Halal Programme has been designed to equip entrepreneurs with essential knowledge in halal standards, product development, branding and business strategies.
“The programme provides participants with practical guidance, consultations and comprehensive support to strengthen their business foundation before entering wider markets,” he said at the opening of the Halal Franchise Conference 2025, organised by the Perbadanan Nasional Berhad (Pernas), recently.
The Penampang Member of Parliament said that the Kuskop-Pernas Halal Success Development Programme 2025 has yielded highly positive results for local entrepreneurs, with over 500 participants from Sabah and more than 1,000 nationwide enrolled as of September 2025.
Various forms of assistance have been provided, including halal certification compliance guidance, product capacity development, technology and innovation support, as well as halal product internationalisation aid.
Ewon noted that the global halal industry continues to expand rapidly, with demand extending beyond food and beverages to encompass lifestyle products, cosmetics and services.
“Malaysia has long been recognised as a world leader in the halal industry, with advantages in certification, product quality and internationally recognised standard compliance,” he said.
Local franchise entrepreneurs now have opportunities to expand their brands into Asean and global markets, positioning Halal Malaysia as a trusted worldwide brand.
Ewon hopes the conference would catalyse more sustainable, competitive growth in the halal franchise industry capable of penetrating global markets.
During the ceremony, he presented mock cheques to four entrepreneurs and certificates to participating representatives.
Source: Daily Express
Full Article: https://www.dailyexpress.com.my/news/268701/sabah-s-potential-as-halal-franchise-hub/
